Aspects Of Health Research Articles

Public Services in the Field of Basic Health for Mothers and Children in Talawaan District, North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi Province

Maternal mortality rate and infant mortality rate are an indication of the low level of population welfare. Likewise, the high disparity in socio-economic levels - rich and poor, between regions and between urban and rural areas. Therefore, health services for mothers and children are the main priority in health development. The government at all levels of government has established and implemented health programs for mothers and children. However, it has not provided a good impact on the aspect of basic public services. Health services for mothers and children through integrated service posts are more visible at the village level and require serious attention from the government because they are very far from health service centers such as regional hospitals. Therefore, this study was conducted to describe and explain basic public health services for mothers and children in Talawaan District, North Minahasa Regency. This study is considered important from the aspect of public health and related to strengthening social capital in the superior fields of social humanities, arts and culture as well as the development and strengthening of institutional systems, health policies, and community empowerment in the superior fields of health and medicine in the Sam Ratulangi University research strategy plan. Data were collected through interviews with the Head of the Health Service and Health Center, Posyandu officers and pregnant mothers and those with toddlers. Observations were made by looking directly at basic health services in Talawaan District. Secondary data were collected during health service activities and conducting electronic searches on Google Scholar and ResearchGate. The analysis was carried out based on the stages of reduction, interpretation, drawing conclusions and verification/triangulation. The research findings that public services in the field of basic health are accessible, acceptable, fair and safe for mothers and children but are not yet fully efficient and effective in their implementation. The concept found from this study is that the community needs basic health services for mothers and children that are easy to access and accept, fair to all levels of society and medically safe. While the principles of efficiency and effectiveness are more about the interests of the organization in the use of resources and achieving goals.

Diversity and Antifungal Susceptibilities of Yeasts from Mangroves in Hong Kong, China-A One Health Aspect.

While mangrove ecosystems are rich in biodiversity, they are increasingly impacted by climate change and urban pollutants. The current study provides first insights into the emergence of potentially pathogenic yeasts in Hong Kong's mangroves. Sediment and water samples were collected from ten urban and rural mangroves sites. Initial CHROMagarTM Candida Plus screening, representing the first application of this differential medium for water and soil samples collected from a non-clinical environment, enabled the rapid, preliminary phenotypic identification of yeast isolates from mangroves. Subsequent molecular profiling (ITS and/or 28S nrDNA sequencing) and antifungal drug susceptibility tests were conducted to further elucidate yeast diversity and drug resistance. A diversity of yeasts, including 45 isolates of 18 distinct species across 13 genera/clades, was isolated from sediments and waters from Hong Kong mangroves. Molecular profiling revealed a dominance of the Candida/Lodderomyces clade (44.4%), a group of notorious opportunistic pathogens. The findings also reveal a rich biodiversity of non-Candida/Lodderomyces yeasts in mangroves, including the first reported presence of Apiotrichum domesticum and Crinitomyces flavificans. A potentially novel Yamadazyma species was also discovered. Remarkably, 14.3% of the ubiquitous Candida parapsilosis isolates displayed resistance to multiple antifungal drugs, suggesting that mangroves may be reservoirs of multi-drug resistance. Wildlife, especially migratory birds, may disseminate these hidden threats. With significant knowledge gaps regarding the environmental origins, drug resistance, and public health impacts of pathogenic yeasts, urgent surveillance is needed from a One Health perspective. This study provides an early warning that unrestrained urbanization can unleash resistant pathogens from coastal ecosystems globally. It underscores the necessity for enhanced surveillance studies and interdisciplinary collaboration between clinicians, ornithologists, and environmental microbiologists to effectively monitor and manage this environmental health risk, ensuring the maintenance of 'One Health'.

Toward configuring healthier classrooms: developing indoor environmental quality assessment indicators

ABSTRACT Classrooms serve as essential indoor environments for students, as they spend a significant portion of their developmental years within them. This has prompted a critical set of questioning of these indoor environments, presenting the emergence of understanding how they affect health and comfort, as well as the importance of assessing these effects. Currently, one of the most advantageous methods of assessment is the Green building Rating Tools (GBRTs). There is an abundance of rating tools that aid in assessing the performance of many types of buildings’ Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). However, maintaining a healthy classroom environment (HCE) necessitates the integration of health and comfort aspects alongside any classroom assessment process. Thus, the primary aim of the current research was to identify the definition of HCE attributes. Moreover, the research aims to detect areas that are yet to be considered or need more attention of the current IEQ assessment indicators, regarding promoting and assessing any classroom environmental healthiness. This was done by revisiting and delving into the IEQ-health-comfort relation, and, moreover, analyzing the attributes which verify the healthiness of a classroom environment and indicators which are traditionally employed to assess IEQ within existing rating systems. A comparative analysis methodology was used to identify key indicators, commons and correlations, in order to determine the extent of compatibility and differences. This analysis has resulted in a new list of 60 composite assessment indicators that concentrate on the health and comfort aspects, referred to as HCE indicators, a step toward healthier classrooms.

Gestational organophosphate pesticide exposure and childhood cardiovascular outcomes

IntroductionThe general population is chronically exposed to organophosphate pesticides through various routes including ingestion, hand-to-mouth contact, inhalation, and dermal contact. Exposure to organophosphate pesticides during pregnancy impairs fetal development, but the potential long-term effects of gestational organophosphate pesticide exposure are less well understood. MethodsWe investigated associations between gestational organophosphate pesticide exposure and cardiovascular outcomes in 643 children in the Generation R Study, a prospective pregnancy cohort based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Urinary organophosphate pesticide metabolites (dimethyl [∑DMAP], diethyl [∑DEAP], and total dialkyl phosphate [∑DAP] metabolites) were quantified in three urine samples collected from pregnant participants, and their children were followed until age 10 years at which time cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, blood pressure, and serum biomarkers assessed cardiovascular health. Linear regression models estimated associations (β and 95 % confidence interval [CI]) between a one-interquartile range (IQR) increase in averaged gestational exposure biomarker concentrations and z-scored pediatric cardiovascular outcomes. We investigated effect modification of associations by PON1 genotype. ResultsCarotid intima-media thickness z-score was lower (β: -0.14 [95 % CI: −0.25, −0.02]) and HDL cholesterol z-score was higher (β: 0.14 [95 % CI: 0.02, 0.25]) for increases in ∑DEAP concentrations. Carotid intima-media distensibility z-score was lower (β: -0.08 [95 % CI: −0.19, 0.03]) for increases in ∑DMAP concentrations, and systolic blood pressure z-score was higher (β: 0.10 [95 % CI: −0.01, 0.21]) for increases in ∑DMAP and ∑DAP. Among those with PON1-161CC and PON1-L55MTT genotypes, higher organophosphate pesticide concentrations conferred an excess risk of adverse vascular and glycemic outcomes, respectively. ConclusionsWe observed heterogenous associations between gestational organophosphate pesticide exposure and pediatric cardiovascular health: an anti-atherogenic profile was observed for increases in ∑DEAP concentrations, and impairments in multiple aspects of cardiovascular health was observed for increases in ∑DMAP concentrations. PON1-161 and PON1-L55M single nucleotide polymorphisms modified associations for vascular and glycemic outcomes, respectively.

Integration of social determinant of health in patient’s history-taking in medical education: an educational scholarship and action research study: phase I

Background and objectiveOne of the most important aspects of health is social health. Addressing social health and social accountability is possible by education of social determinants of health (SDH) to medical students. The aim of current study is to integrate the SDH variables to patient’s history-taking in medical education during clerkship stage as an action research and scholarship in education. Pediatric patients were selected as the target population for this study.MethodsThe present study is an action-research including three phases of the program's design, implementation, and evaluation. The present paper reports the results of phase I including the following steps; rapid scoping review and expert panel for development of history-taking form. The goal of this phase was to prepare an SDH checklist for history-taking in the Pediatrics Ward of Firoozabadi Teaching Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. The checklist of history-taking was evaluated in terms of measurability, feasibility, priority, and clarity using a 5-choice Likert scale.ResultsAccording to the results of the scoping review and consensus-based methods, the preliminary version of the program was prepared including the SDH history-taking checklist. A total of 21 items were selected after two expert panel rounds. The overall absolute agreement was 0.704 (95% CI: 0.587 – 0.793) which was significantly higher than 0.5 (P < 0.001). The range of scores was 3.5 – 4.83 (out of five).ConclusionWe developed a SDH history-taking form including nine domains and 21 items. This form should be piloted and evaluated by an expert panel in the next phases. The present phase of the project proposed a consensus-based program for the imputation of SDH education in the education program of medical students. The reason for the importance of choosing children is that social factors in the group of children can have a greater impact considering the long life ahead and being in the growing age. After the implementation and evaluation phases, this program may be imputed in the medical education curriculum.

Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Menstrual Cycle, Quality of Life and Perception on Fertility: A Mixed Methods Study of Women in Delhi-NCR

The COVID-19 pandemic presented extraordinary challenges which led individuals to make global efforts to develop a vaccine that could help battle the spread of the infection. The COVID-19 vaccine came as a sigh of relief for the world, but whilst we assess the positives, we must consider looking into the potential impacts it has had on aspects of health, including female reproductive health. The current study aimed at assessing the potential impacts that COVID-19 vaccination had on menstrual cycles and the perception of women about fertility-related issues following the jab through a comprehensive mixed methods design. A structured survey, using the Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ) and WHO Quality of life scale was carried out with a diverse sample (n=500) of women (18-40 years) in the Delhi-NCR region, collecting data on menstrual cycle changes post receiving the Vaccine. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subset of the participants (n=15) to understand the perceptions of women about fertility-related issues following the Vaccine. The study suggests that most of the participants reported facing menstrual concerns such as missed periods, menstrual irregularities, excessive menstrual bleeding and increased cramping on the first day of their period. Through semi-structured interviews, the themes that emerged were fear regarding conception, early menopause, infertility, mood changes, anxiety, fatigue, less pain tolerance and problems with menstrual flow. Alongside, many had low scores on the quality-of-life questionnaire which was understood better through semi-structured interviews. Cognitive distortions were observed among participants while they explained their perceptions of the whole scenario. The study seeks to address a critical topic and fill knowledge gaps to understand the possible health impacts the COVID-19 vaccine has on women’s reproductive health. The study would contribute to creating scientific evidence and valuable insights for the health industry to understand any potential side effects the vaccine could have.

The Effect of Memory Training on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review

Memory is related to the processes that allow us to record, store and then retrieve experiences and information. Memory as an information processor is analogized by psychologists and neurologists as a computer. The recording process, called encoding, is the process of obtaining information conveyed to the system by translating it into neural code which is processed in the brain.The goal of the research titled is to systematically evaluate and synthesize existing studies to determine the impact of memory training interventions on various aspects of cognitive function. This includes assessing how memory training may enhance skills such as attention, processing speed, working memory, and overall cognitive performance. By identifying patterns, strengths, and limitations in the current literature, the study aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of memory training programs and guide future research and practical applications in cognitive enhancement.Method: Articles used in systematic reviews are typically sourced from various academic databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar. These include studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The keywords used for searching may include phrases like "memory training," "cognitive function," "cognitive enhancement," "working memory," and other related terms. This combination of keywords helps filter relevant articles. For instance, in this review, there might be 150 articles identified through the initial search. After a selection process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, approximately 30 articles are chosen for further analysis. The articles included in the systematic review are examined systematically, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines: Study Identification,Study Selection,Data Extraction,Analysis and Synthesis Analyzing the results from the selected studies and compiling conclusions based on the available evidence.Results: The findings from these five literature studies cumulatively imply that activities involving the Al-Quran, such as listening, reading, or memorizing, have a positive impact on various aspects of physical and mental health, cognitive function, and brain responses. The implications of these results may stimulate further research in the field of cognitive interventions, as well as provide a more in-depth look at the role of memorization in the development of cognitive abilities at critical developmental stages.Conclusion: From the five studies reviewed, it can be concluded that memory training interventions, especially in the context of memorizing the Qur'an, contribute positively to the improvement of cognitive function in various age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. The implications of these findings give impetus to further research in the field of cognitive intervention, focusing on memorization strategies, as well as providing deeper insight into the role of memorization in the development of cognitive abilities at critical stages of life.

Exploring the determinants of fertility rates in Ethiopia: a decomposition analysis using count regression models with a focus on urban and rural residence, based on the 2019 Ethiopian demographic health survey

IntroductionFertility refers to the biological capacity to reproduce and have children. It is a key aspect of reproductive health influenced by various factors. Therefore, this study aims to explore the determinants of fertility rates based on urban and rural settings in Ethiopia.MethodA stratified two-stage cluster sampling approach was used, employing data from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey (https://dhsprogram.com). The study comprised 8,885 women aged 15 to 49 years. The study employed Stata 17, and the data was described using descriptive statistics. Associations were examined using decomposition analysis and negative binomial regression. The Incidence Rate Ratio and p-value were used to determine the statistical significance of the variables examined.ResultsThe negative binomial regression found that factors such as maternal age (IRR, 1.08, P-value,0.00), living in rural (IRR,1.09, P-value,0.00), being Muslim (IRR,1.13, P-value,0.00), being from other religious groups (IRR,1.16, P-value,0.00), having six up to nine household members (IRR,1.24, P-value,0.00), having greater than nine household member(IRR,1.14, P-value,0.04), having one child under five year (IRR,1.35, P-value,0.00), having two children under five year (IRR,1.77, P-value,0.00), and having more than two under five years (IRR,1.99, P-value,0.00), being currently pregnant (IRR,1.08, P-value,0.00), use of contraceptive(IRR,1.13, P-value,0.00) are positively associated with bearing more children. On the other hand, completing primary education (IRR,0.84, P-value,0.00), secondary education (IRR,0.61, P-value,0.00), being from the richest household (IRR = 0.94, P-value,0.00), and being single/divorced and widowed (IRR,0.49, P-value,0.00) are negatively associated with having more children because their IRR is less than one. The decomposition analysis also demonstrated that marital status has a stronger negative correlation with fertility in rural compared to urban settings. Additionally, the number of children under five exerts a greater influence on fertility in urban areas.Conclusionthe study found significant rural-urban differences in the factors shaping fertility in Ethiopia. While demographics like maternal age, education, and wealth influenced fertility in both settings, the relationships varied in nature and magnitude. To address this, Policymakers should develop targeted fertility programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by rural and urban populations.

Effect of oral health on functional disability and mortality in older adults in Japan: a cohort study.

Oral health has previously shown associations with functional disability and mortality. We aimed to explore the associations of various aspects of oral health status with functional disability and mortality using survival analysis, as well as the relative magnitudes of the impact of these aspects on outcomes. We obtained data for individuals aged 75years and older in Shimane, Japan, who had at least one oral health check-up between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2022under Japan's long-life medical care system insurance system. Those with missing data or with functional disability at baseline were excluded. 13aspects of oral health status were assessed by dentists or dental hygienists as part of the check-up (using protocols provided by the JapanDental Association and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare): number of remaining teeth, subjective masticatory performance, objective masticatory performance, periodontal tissue status, functional dysphagia, tongue mobility, articulation, oral hygiene, number of decayed teeth, inadaptation of dentures of the upper jaw and lower jaw (considered separately), oral mucosal disease, and dry mouth. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyse the associations between each aspect of oral health and functional disability and mortality, with fully adjusted models adjusting for sex, age, BMI, medical history, or a propensity score derived from these covariates. Population-attributable fractions (PAFs) were calculated to assess the differential impacts of these oral health status aspects on outcome occurrence. Of the 24 619individuals who had an oral health check-up during the study period, 21 881individuals wereincluded in the analysis of functional disability (9175 [41·93%] men, 12 706 [58·07%] women, mean age 78·31years [SD 2·88], mean follow-up 41·43months [20·80]), and 22 747individuals in the analysis of mortality (9722 [42·74%] men, 13 025 [57·26%] women, mean age 78·34years [2·89], mean follow-up 42·63months [20·58]). All 13aspects of oral health status showed significant associations with the occurrence of mortality, while functional disabilitywas associated with 11aspects (excluding oral mucosal disease and dry mouth) in the fully adjusted model. Based on PAFs, of all oral health aspects assessed, objective masticatory performance hadthegreatestimpact on both functional disability (PAF 23·10% [95% CI 20·42-25·69] for the lowest and 10·62% [8·18-12·99] for the second-lowest quartile of performance) and mortality (16·47% [13·44-19·40] and 8·90% [5·87-11·82]). Various aspects of oral health are associated with mortality and functional disability. Maintaining good oral health in older adults might help to reduce these outcomes. None.

Tobacco- and Nicotine-Containing Product Use in Italy: Results From Two Cross-Sectional Studies

BACKGROUND: Heated tobacco products (HTPs) are alternatives to cigarettes that heat rather than burn tobacco. The first HTP sold in Italy was _IQOS®_ (I-HTP), and while it has been available for nearly a decade, limited data are available on the use of these products. OBJECTIVE: To characterize how Italian adults (users of legal age) use tobacco- and nicotine-containing products (TNPs), including smoke-free products (SFPs), we surveyed this population about their current and past use of TNPs from 2018 to 2020. METHODS: Two consecutive cross-sectional surveys were conducted in representative samples of the general adult population (6,095 subjects from 2018 to 2019 and 6,118 from 2019 to 2020) and among adult I-HTP users (1,371 subjects from 2018 to 2019 and 1,401 from 2019 to 2020) in Italy. We assessed the prevalence of current TNP use in the general population sample and use patterns in the I-HTP_ _users sample. RESULTS: In the first cross-sectional study (2018-2019), cigarettes were the most used TNP (24.3%), while only a small proportion of the surveyed general population sample used e-cigarettes or I-HTPs (1.4% and 0.7%, respectively). Nearly all current I-HTP users were current adult cigarette smokers when they started using I-HTPs (98.0%). Both surveys showed low initiation, re-initiation, and relapse with I-HTPs, with the majority of current I-HTP users belonging to the intended audience of adults who already used TNPs. Some participants used both I-HTPs and combustible TNPs (38.6%); however, most (59.2%) used I-HTPs exclusively. I-HTP_ _users perceived the health risk (score 0 = no risk; score 100 = very high risk) associated with cigarette smoking higher (63.7) than that for I-HTP_ _use (42.6). Exclusive I-HTP users reported improved respiratory symptoms (reduced cough and phlegm) and exercise capacity compared to a year before they started using I-HTPs. Most current I-HTP users also reported improved smell and taste, better breath smell, and reduced stains or yellowing teeth. Overall, these results were more pronounced among exclusive I-HTP users. The results of the second cross-sectional study (2019-2020) were similar, except for an increase in I-HTP_ _use_ _(1.1% vs. 0.7% in 2018 to 2019). CONCLUSIONS: These studies show that most TNP users in Italy smoke cigarettes. The uptake of I-HTPs suggests that they are a viable alternative to cigarettes. Nearly all I-HTP users switched from cigarettes to I-HTPs. Furthermore, most I-HTP_ _users exclusively use the product. I-HTP users considered the health risk associated with I-HTP_ _use to be lower compared to cigarette smoking, but they did not perceive I-HTPs_ _as risk free. Study participants reported improvements on some health, hygiene, and appearance aspects after switching from cigarettes to I-HTPs. Our results suggest that SFPs can play a role in a harm reduction approach. Further studies are needed to continually monitor the prevalence of SFP use to provide long-term evidence of their impact.

Impacts on Health, Environment and Quality of Life in the Post-Covid-19 Pandemic Period

Objective: To investigate how the pandemic and the post-COVID-19 scenario may impact current and future plans in health (medical area), the environment, and the population's quality of life. Theoretical Framework: In 2019, the world began to live as a hostage to an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. As uncertainty reigns, the severity of the situation has shown that it could have social, health, educational, economic, and environmental aspects. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a bibliographic review based on books, cataloged scientific articles being published on digital platforms including Scientific Library Online (SciELO), Pubmed, Periódico Capes, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, using the descriptors: COVID-19; quality of life; environment; health; and their respective synonyms, in Portuguese and English, published between 2015 and 2024. The exclusion criteria used in this study were duplicate articles in more than one database, with similar titles and that did not cover the topic, as well as articles published before 2015 in Portuguese and English. The main aspects analyzed for inclusion were the year of publication, type of study, language, objectives and main findings, according to the relevance of the original and current topic. Therefore, considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we made a cut of works published in the last 9 years and in the end 31 works were selected for the construction of this study. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that all social spheres were, and may still be, affected unequally by the pandemic, since it is a situation of unknown nature, which is intensified every day by globalization and social inequalities. Direct impacts on the economy and jobs, as well as indirect effects of learning losses among children who are out of school. In terms of health and the impact on quality of life, we found changes in mental health, with an increase in the diagnosis of depression among adults. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the fields of health, environment and education. These implications can cover areas of health promotion, economics and public and private management. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by addressing a current topic with extreme social relevance that prioritizes deepening knowledge in the area that has changed humanity the most in current times: the COVID-19 Pandemic. Furthermore, it analyzes the real impacts of this historical and unique moment in the global context, with a greater focus on health, the environment and the quality of life of the human population.

Weight-control compensatory behaviors patterns and correlates: a scoping review.

Weight-control compensatory behaviors appear to be a commonly utilized strategy for health management. Individuals engaging in such behaviors believe that the negative consequences from unhealthy behaviors will be neutralized by the positive consequences of healthy behaviors. Existing research has not reached a consensus on whether such behaviors are beneficial to health. This review aims to (1) summarize the patterns of weight-control compensatory health behaviors in different populations, (2) highlight correlates, predictors, and consequences of compensatory health behaviors, and (3) identify gaps for future research. This review identified existing literature using online databases, CINAHL and PubMed. Primary research articles published after 2000 with non-clinical participants of 12 years or older who engaged in compensatory behaviors for weight control purposes were selected. Descriptive statistics were extracted from 35 studies. Different patterns for weight-control compensatory behaviors emerged between the female and male sexes. Meanwhile, no clear association of such behaviors was found across weight status. Studies reviewed also highlighted three main areas of compensatory behaviors for weight management, namely dietary behaviors, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Weight-control compensatory behaviors had significant negative correlations with mental health indicators, such as psychosocial functioning, emotional differentiation ability, and body esteem. Weight-control compensatory behaviors may be a widely used weight management strategy and can be presented in diverse ways. Although believed to be promoting health, such behaviors appear to be associated with poor psychological well-being. This emerging topic warrants more in-depth investigation to establish the direction of causation. Future research may investigate the relationship between weight-control compensatory behaviors and various aspects of health over longer time periods, examine the engagement of multiple weight-control compensatory behaviors, and focus on high-risk populations.

Comparing Health Anxiety and Social Exclusion in the Elderlies and Adults Referring to the Veterans Foundation in COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective: Covid-19 pandemic is a global challenge negatively affecting various aspects of health of different age groups. One of the groups involved with the psychological challenges of Covid-19 were the veterans and their families. So, this study was conducted to compare the health anxiety and social exclusion in elderlies and youths referring to the Veteran Foundation in Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 114 clients of the Veterans Foundation in order to compare the health anxiety and social exclusion in the elderlies and adults referring to Veterans Foundation in the Covid-19 pandemic. The participants were collected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using demographic, health anxiety and social exclusion questionnaires. Results: In the comparison of social exclusion and its sub-dimensions, the variables of Out-group social support, participation and shame have a significant difference (P&lt;0.05) and the average of outgroup support in the adults is more than in the elderlies, while the average of participation and social shame is higher in the elderlies than the adults. There is an inverse and significant correlation between the indicators of social relations, participation and the total social exclusion with health anxiety in youths (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Given the risks of social exclusion on the physical and mental health of the elderlies and its correlation with health anxiety, it seems that, more attention should be paid to the effects of the disease on the mental and social health of the elderlies in Covid-19 prevention programs.

Healthy in ancient and modern times

Background: Health practices have evolved from ancient holistic approaches to modern scientifically driven methods. This comparative study aims to explore the continuity and transformation in healthcare practices from ancient times to the present, highlighting the enduring principles of wellness and the advancements in medical science. Methods and Material: The research employs a comparative analysis of ancient health practices, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, against modern health practices influenced by scientific and technological advancements. Sources include archaeological findings, historical texts, and contemporary scientific literature. Results: Ancient health practices emphasized a holistic approach, integrating diet, lifestyle, and spiritual practices to maintain balance and harmony. Modern health practices prioritize evidence-based treatments, technological interventions, and preventive care, leading to significant improvements in health outcomes. Both approaches highlight the importance of preventive measures, personalized care, and a comprehensive understanding of health and well-being. Conclusion: This study reveals that despite the methodological differences, the fundamental objective of fostering health and well-being remains constant across time. Integrating ancient wisdom with modern scientific advancements offers a more holistic approach to health, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of well-being.

Healthcare professionals’ experiences of providing palliative care for patients with diabetes – a qualitative study

BackgroundAt present, there are no specific guidelines for the treatment of diabetes in palliative care in Norway. The aim of this study was therefore to explore healthcare professionals’ experiences of providing palliative care to individuals with diabetes in specialist as well as primary care settings.MethodsWe interviewed 12 healthcare professionals from two palliative care units in specialist healthcare, one hospice unit in a nursing home, and one dietary care unit providing counselling in the municipality in the eastern part of Norway. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.ResultsOur analysis generated three main themes: 1) “Quality of life is the main focus”, which showed that the healthcare professionals’ main focus was on comforting patients through engagement and communication; 2) “An individualized approach”, emphasizing that the treatment was tailored to the unique circumstances of each individual and considered factors such as life expectancy, difficult blood glucose control, and multidisciplinary collaboration, and 3) “Diabetes in the background”, which highlighted that they had a modest focus on diabetes. Diabetes was seen as another aspect of health that they had to be aware of, but their limited knowledge of diabetes guidelines, technical tools, and treatment choices underscored that attentiveness to the diabetes treatment was not prominent.ConclusionThe findings show that a lack of guidelines allowed for diverse approaches to the treatment of patients with diabetes in palliative care. Attentiveness to diabetes was based on the individual healthcare professionals’ experience and expertise, professional views, and the circumstances of each individual.

Cost-effectiveness of a patient-reported outcome-based remote monitoring and alert intervention for early detection of critical recovery after joint replacement: A randomised controlled trial.

While the effectiveness of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) as an intervention to impact patient pathways has been established for cancer care, it is unknown for other indications. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of a PROM-based monitoring and alert intervention for early detection of critical recovery paths following hip and knee replacement. The cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) is based on a multicentre randomised controlled trial encompassing 3,697 patients with hip replacement and 3,110 patients with knee replacement enrolled from 2019 to 2020 in 9 German hospitals. The analysis was conducted with a subset of 546 hip and 492 knee replacement cases with longitudinal cost data from 24 statutory health insurances. Patients were randomised 1:1 to a PROM-based remote monitoring and alert intervention or to a standard care group. All patients were assessed at 12-months post-surgery via digitally collected PROMs. Patients within the intervention group were additionally assessed at 1-, 3-, and 6-months post-surgery to be contacted in case of critical recovery paths. For the effect evaluation, a PROM-based composite measure (PRO-CM) was developed, combining changes across various PROMs in a single index ranging from 0 to 100. The PRO-CM included 6 PROMs focused on quality of life and various aspects of physical and mental health. The primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The intervention group showed incremental outcomes of 2.54 units PRO-CM (95% confidence interval (CI) [0.93, 4.14]; p = 0.002) for patients with hip and 0.87 (95% CI [-0.94, 2.67]; p = 0.347) for patients with knee replacement. Within the 12-months post-surgery period the intervention group had less costs of 376.43€ (95% CI [-639.74, -113.12]; p = 0.005) in patients with hip, and 375.50€ (95% CI [-767.40, 16.39]; p = 0.060) in patients with knee replacement, revealing a dominant ICER for both procedures. However, it remains unclear which step of the multistage intervention contributes most to the positive effect. The intervention significantly improved patient outcomes at lower costs in patients with hip replacements when compared with standard care. Further it showed a nonsignificant cost reduction in knee replacement patients. This reinforces the notion that PROMs can be utilised as a cost-effective instrument for remote monitoring in standard care settings. Registration: German Register for Clinical Studies (DRKS) under DRKS00019916.

Digital sexual literacy: the potential for online spaces to support sexual literacy among young people

IntroductionHealth literacy is defined as the capacity, resources and insight to seek information, ask critical questions and be an advocate for one’s health. Sexual literacy is framed in similar terms, relating to the capacity to navigate emotionally and physically safe sexual encounters and to hold a critical and assertive stance on relationship dynamics, gender and consent. In this paper, we present findings from a qualitative study that explored how young people’s use of the internet develops sexual literacy.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted with 22 young people (aged 18–25). Interviews explored the ways in which young people participate in online spaces to learn about sex, relationships, bodies and other aspects of sexual health. Data were analysed using qualitative, inductive thematic coding techniques.ResultsYoung people described learning about sexual health online as a process of exploring ideas, topics or experiences (going down ‘rabbit holes’). It was rarely the case that young people searched for specific information. Young people described engaging with multiple sources of content and multiple people online to learn about relationships or sex. This was often personal. Young people wanted to understand their own experiences and hear stories from people with similar experiences. Engaging with multiple sources, stories and people enabled critical reflection and peer-based learning.DiscussionBuilding sexual health literacy is not simply about providing young people with sexual health information. Rather, it is about supporting young people to develop critical insight and capacity to reflect deeply on experiences and issues that affect their sexual relationships. The online environment supports sexual literacy as it enables critical inquiry, access to multiple perspectives, peer connection and personal reflection.

CLPr_in_ML: Cleft Lip and Palate Reconstructed Features with Machine Learning

Background: Cleft lip and palate are two of the most common craniofacial congenital malformations in humans. It influences tens of millions of patients worldwide. The hazards of this disease are multifaceted, extending beyond the obvious facial malformation to encompass physiological functions, oral health, psychological well-being, and social aspects. Objective: The primary objective of our study is to demonstrate the importance of imaging in detecting cleft lip and palate. By observing the morphological and structural abnormalities involving the lip and palate through imaging methods, this study aims to establish imaging as the primary diagnostic approach for this disease. Methods: In this work, we proposed a novel model to analyze unilateral complete cleft lip and palate after velopharyngeal closure and non-left lip and palate patients from the Department of Stomatology of Xuzhou First People's Hospital, Conical Beam CT (CBCT) images in silicon. In order to demonstrate the generalization, the simulated dataset was constructed using the random disturbance factor, which is from the actual dataset. We extracted several raw features from CBCT images in detail. Then, we proposed a novel feature reconstruction method, including six types of reconstructed factors, to reconstruct the existing features. Then, the reconstructed features weretrained with machine learning algorithms. Finally, the testing and independent data model was utilized to analyze the performance of this work. Results: By comparing different operator features, the min operator, max operator, average operator, and all operators can achieve good performances in both the testing set and the independent set. result: none Conclusion: With the different operator features, the majority of classification models, including Gradient Boosting, Hist Gradient Boosting, Multilayer Perceptron, lightGBM, and broadened learning, classification algorithms can get the well-performances in the selected reconstructed feature operators.

Current Opinion in Clinical Management of Human Cystic Echinococcosis in the Liver

Cystic echinococcosis remains a serious and threatening disease in countries on all continents where it is endemic. It is a zoonosis that continues to be neglected, despite all the efforts of the teams working on it and the WHO. Therefore, it is never too much to remember the clinical management of this disease in humans. This is what we intend in this manuscript. The disease is caused by the larval stages of cestodes (tapeworms) of the genus Echinococcus found in the small intestine of carnivores, which infects humans due to accidental ingestion of eggs of these parasites. The most frequent and most widespread across all continents is cystic echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus (sensu lato). The annual incidence of CE can range from less than 1 to 200 per 100,000 inhabitants in various endemic areas. In China and Central Asia, the population risk is more than 40 million people, with a mortality rate of about 2% - 4%. Objectives: One of the objectives of this manuscript is to recall the parasite cycle and the form of contamination, a very important public health aspect, and draw attention to this neglected zoonosis that affects millions of people, particularly in the countries of Central Asia, the Mediterranean basin and South America. Last but not least, we intend to draw attention to the correct nomenclature in relation to the terms that define the disease, the different stages, and the proper designations, particularly with regard to therapeutic modalities. Method: The manuscript also aims to describe the form of contamination of the disease, the diagnostic methods, in particular the use of ultrasound, and the therapeutic modalities, some of which, particularly the invasive ones, must be carried out in Centres dedicated to the study and treatment of this zoonosis. Conclusion: Despite these important data and the socioeconomic impact Echinococcosis remains a neglected disease. Given this situation, all forms of echinococcosis remain serious public health threats, particularly in South America, the Mediterranean basin, and Central Asia, which must deserve the attention of the states of these continents and the WHO.

Comparative analysis based on shared amplicon sequence variants reveals that cohabitation influences gut microbiota sharing between humans and dogs.

The One Health concept is a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between humans, animals, and the environment. The cohabitation of humans and pets positively affects their physical, mental, and social well-being. It is recognized as an essential factor from the One Health perspective. Furthermore, a healthy balance in the gut microbiome is essential for good health, and the changes in the gut microbiome associated with cohabitation between humans and pets could potentially affect various aspects of the health of both hosts. Therefore, elucidating the sharing of gut bacteria between humans and pets associated with cohabitation is important for understanding One Health. However, most studies have examined sharing at the taxonomic level, and it remains unclear whether the same bacteria are transferred between humans and pets, and whether they mutually influence each other. Here, microbiome analysis and shared 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence variant (ASV) analysis were conducted before the start of cohabitation between humans and dogs, as well as at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after cohabitation. 16S rRNA gene ASVs analysis indicated that gut microbes have been transferred between humans and dogs. The overall structure of the gut microbiota within human-dog pairs remained unchanged after 3 months of adaptation. However, 11ASVs were shared within human-dog pairs. Many shared ASVs were highly abundant within each host, and this high abundance may be considered a factor that influences bacterial transfer between hosts. Our results provide important insights into the potential for the transfer of gut bacteria between humans and dogs. These findings are considered crucial for understanding the impact of human-dog cohabitation on various aspects of health.